Fractures at the front part of the foot include metatarsal and toe fractures. These are among the most common foot and ankle fractures we see in our Los Angeles and other California offices.
Broken Toes, Toe Fractures
Toe fractures are usually the result of a stubbing injury. The toe hits the side of a table or solid object and gets rotated sideways causing a fracture to occur.
The treatment for a toe fracture is usually to splint the toe in a corrected position, “buddy” splinting to the adjacent toe. This is usually supplemented with a protective shoe. In rare cases, the toe may be dislocated and will need to be re-aligned and splinted.
Broken Metatarsal, Metatarsal Fracture
Metatarsal fractures are also common, especially the base of the 5th metatarsal. In most cases, the fracture occurs from some type of trauma including a fall, landing on the foot wrong or twisting the foot and ankle. Most metatarsal fractures usually heal well without the need for surgery, however, there is an area of the 5th metatarsal which is notorious for non-healing. This type of metatarsal fracture, called a "Jones Fracture" is diffucult to heal and may require surgery.
Metatarsal fractures that are out of position or not healing usually require a simple surgery with screws and/or plate fixation and at least a period of no walking in a cast.
5th Metatarsal Base Avulsion Fracture
Pre-Surgery
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5th Metatarsal Base Avulsion Fracture
Post-Surgery with Plate and Screw Fixation |
5th Toe Fracture and Partial Dislocation |
5th Toe Fracture with Relocation in Office |
Our Podiatrists, surgeons and physical therapists are the very best. Request an appointment with a doctor at our Los Angeles or other Southern California offices.